Robert Eagle’s return to Lowestoft Town has given the Trawlerboys the X factor they need to haul themselves away from trouble in the Bostik Premier Division.

The former Norwich City midfielder returned to the Amber Dew Events Stadium earlier this week for the rest of the season from Leiston. He made an instant impact on Tuesday evening, scoring in the Blues’ 3-0 win over Enfield Town - ending a run of eight games without a win.

And manager Dale Brooks believes the 30-year-old has got the experience and creativity to help the Trawlerboys pull themselves away from the drop zone.

“With Robert he knows the league inside out and knows what it takes to get results,” said Brooks, who took over the managerial reins from Ady Gallagher in November last year. “He’s got a few strings to his bow - he’s a very creative player. You obviously need all the effort and desire you can get but sometimes you need those moments of quality and Robert can provide those.”

Brooks had admitted a lack of experience in the Lowestoft ranks was undermining the club’s efforts to stay away from bottom place and the sole relegation spot. When the former Southend United youth coach was made aware of Eagle’s availability he didn’t hesitate to make his move.

“I was aware he had not played much for Leiston and that he wanted to get some game time,” he said. “He knows the club inside out and I obviously know him from my time with Norwich and when he was at Lowestoft before.

“We had a few inexperienced lads that we didn’t want to throw in yet as they aren’t quite ready. With Robert we know what we are getting - a real quality player with a lot of technical ability.”

Tuesday night also saw a return to form for Jake Reed as he notched his first goals since November.

“Jake has missed a few chances recently but the good thing about Jake is that he keeps getting in there putting himself in positions to score,” said Brooks. “You know with Jake that he’s going to keep getting in the right areas and get among the goals again.”

Lowestoft take on promotion hopefuls Dulwich Hamlet this afternoon with the Londoners looking to return to form having gone four matches without a win. Brooks concedes his Blues side will be heavy underdogs but hopeful they can pull off a surprise.

“As much as we are realists - we’re not pessimists either,” said Brooks, who could have both Andrew Fisk (gash) and Adam Smith (tonsillitis) available. “We will be doing our utmost to get something out the game.